Health Library

Nepafenac Ophthalmic drops, suspension

What is this medicine?

NEPAFENAC (ne paf FEN ak) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The eye drops are used to treat pain and swelling after eye surgery.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

bleeding problems

contact lenses

diabetes mellitus

dry eyes, other eye problems or recent eye surgery

lung or breathing disease, like asthma

an unusual or allergic reaction to nepafenac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Remove contact lenses before putting the drops in your eyes and leave them out for at least 5 minutes after putting drops into your eyes. Wash your hands before and after using the drops. Shake the bottle well before use. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not rub your eyes. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. If you are using more than one medicine in the eye, the medicines should be used 5 minutes apart. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

other eye drops, such as corticosteroids

Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Do not use these eye drops for longer than prescribed by your doctor or health care professional.

Unless your doctor or health care professional tells you it is okay, you should avoid wearing contact lenses while you are using this medicine.

This medicine can make your eyes more sensitive to sunlight. It might help to wear sunglasses while using this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

bleeding in the eye

changes in vision

sores in the eye or eye irritation that gets worse

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

burning or stinging after putting the drops in your eye

dry, red, or itchy eyes

sensitivity to light

tearing or the feeling of something in the eye

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.